Laboratories that have the ability to analyze titanium and titanium alloys by spark-atomic emission spectrometry or glow discharge-AES are currently being sought to participate in an interlaboratory study for a proposed new standard.

ASTM WK25738, Test Method for Analysis of Titanium and Titanium Alloys by Spark-Atomic Emission/Glow Discharge-Atomic Emission Spectrometry, is currently being developed by Subcommittee E01.06 on Ti, Zr, W, Mo, Ta, Nb, Hf, Re, part of ASTM International Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores and Related Materials.   

“Currently, an ASTM standard does not exist for the analysis of titanium and titanium alloys by spark-atomic emission or glow discharge atomic emission spectrometry,” says Kevin VonScio, laboratory manager, Perryman Co., and a member of E01. “Methods do exist for the analysis of titanium and titanium alloys by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. ASTM WK25738 will add to the list of titanium analysis techniques covered by ASTM methods.”

According to VonScio, spark emission/glow discharge analyzers are a cost savings over X-ray fluorescence analyzers while offering the same reliability and stability. VonScio also notes that spark emission/glow discharge analysis is faster than inductively coupled plasma spectrometry due to sample preparation time.

“Spark/glow discharge spectrometers are simple, fast, need minimal maintenance and very little consumables,” says VonScio.

ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee E01 Next Meeting: May 15-18, 2011, May Committee Week, Anaheim, Calif.
Technical Contact: Kevin VonScio, Perryman Co., Houston, Pa., Phone: 724-746-9390; kvonscio@perrymanco.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Thomas O’Toole, Phone: 610-832-9739; totoole@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Barbara Schindler, Phone: 610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org

Release #8855